Paediatric Oncology Flashcards
which types of tumours are most common in children?
lymphoma
leukaemia
CNS tumours
what is the immediate management of spinal cord compression secondary to a tumour in children?
dexamethasone to reduce inflammation
what is the immediate management of raised ICP secondary to a tumour in children?
dexamethasone to reduce inflammation
what is the management of SVC or SMS syndrome in children with cancer?
chemotherapy
radiotherapy
which cranial nerve is most commonly affected in children with raised ICP secondary to a brain tumour?
cranial nerve 6 (abducens)
what is tumour lysis syndrome?
it’s the rapid breakdown of cancer cells, secondary to treatment
what biochemical features are seen in tumour lysis syndrome in paediatric oncology?
high potassium
high urate
high phosphorus
low calcium
what are the most common features of spinal cord compression in paediatric oncology?
weakness
paresthaesia
pain
bladder dysfunction
how is tumour lysis syndrome managed in paediatric oncology?
electrolyte control
hyperhydration
what organ is severely affected by tumour lysis syndrome in paediatric oncology?
kidneys - undergo acute kidney failure
how is febrile neutropaenia managed in paediatric oncology?
same as sepsis management
name a symptoms presented in paediatric tumours
- headache/vomiting
- visual abnormalities
- seizures
- tiredness
- weight loss
- swellings
- back pain
when should a child be sent for immediate oncology referral?
if they present with unexplained petechiae or hepatosplenomegaly
when should a child be sent for urgent oncology referral?
if they present with new onset neuro signs, abdo mass or repeat attendance with same problems
when should a child be sent for referral for investigation?
if they present with pain at rest, back pain, a lump or unexplained weight loss
